Nikon 1 AW1

The Nikon 1 AW1 is essentially a Nikon 1 J3 on steroids. It is an attractive camera, but it doesn’t look like a compact P&S digicam and it doesn’t look much like a DSLR either. It does, however, look a bit like the rangefinder cameras from another era and it seems to be built to old-school standards. The metal-alloy frame/Stainless steel top/front panels, and Polycarbonate body shell construction feels robust and substantial, but it doesn’t feel too heavy. The AW1 isn’t really pocketable (at least not with the zoom lens attached), but the included neck strap will keep this camera both close and relatively secure. The AW1 is waterproof to 49 feet (15 meters), dustproof, designed to withstand a 6.6 feet (2 meters) drop onto a hard surface, and it’s freeze-proofed down to 14 degrees Fahrenheit (-10 degrees Centigrade).

Pros

Waterproof, shockproof, dustproof, and freezeproof

Neutral colors

Fills a unique product niche

Cons

Poorly placed action mode control

handgrip is less than ideal

Quick Take

The Nikon 1 AW1 offers the flexibility of an ILC with the underwater capability of a rugged camera. This unique camera is great for the adventure enthusiast.